WELCOME TO My Diabetic Heart!
Diabetes and Congestive Heart Failure are two common conditions that people are diagnosed with every day. Living with one of these conditions at any age is hard enough; imagine living with both at the age of 26. That's what this blog is all about. It's about my life with Type 2 Diabetes and CHF, and about showing that you can live a fulfilling life with each.
Written by Mike on September 1st, 2010
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Today is Diabetes Art Day!!!!! In honor of this day, I decided to pay tribute to the DOC, or as I like to think of it, my diabetes family. And so, I present to you my Diabetes Family Tree.
Many thanks to Lee Ann Thill of The Butter Compartment for making Diabetes Art Day possible.
Written by Mike on August 20th, 2010
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I originally wrote this poem and posted it 5 and a half months into my diagnosis. The message in it still speaks to me a little over a year later, so I thought I’d repost it. The poem was inspired by my experiences with heart and other health problems, my faith in God, and the music and messages within the lyrics that have kept me going.
Broken Hearts Still Hold Songs
My heart may be weak,
but my spirits are strong.
Though my health may be poor,
my soul is still filled with song.
In my hour of despair,
I go to Him in prayer.
And because He lives, and loves me,
I can face tomorrow.
His sweet, sweet spirit fills me,
I can feel his hand in mine, and
that really is all I need to know.
And by His amazing grace, I’m
able to give the world a smile,
and keep walking on.
Yes, my heart is weak, and
the road to recovery is very long,
but with Him as my guiding spirit,
my soul shall always be filled with song.
Written by Mike on August 18th, 2010
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The winners of the poetry book drawing, hosted by Lee Ann Thill over at The Butter Compartment, have been announced. My congratulations to the winners, Virtue and Sherry .
While my entry wasn’t one of the chosen two, I’m still glad that I took the time to put it together and submit it. I had a lot of fun making it, so it was definitely worthwhile.
Written by Mike on August 17th, 2010
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I was looking through the newspaper this morning, and came across this little gem in the horoscope section. While I’m not a big follower of them nor a real believer, I do occasionally come across one that has a real air of truth to it. This is one of them:
“Aries (March 21-April 19). - Because of the unique circumstances of your recent years, you have information to impart. You’re a teacher, and the world is your classroom, filled with students – some willing, some difficult. You’ll make an impression on all.”
I’ve certainly had some interesting things going on in my life in the last couple of years, and I definitely have a thing or two to say about it. Whether I’m really teaching anyone anything, well, that’s debatable some days. I certainly hope that someone is listening to, er… reading what I have to say, and that they are getting something useful out of it. And if not, well, that’s OK, too.
There’s a song lyric that goes “If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.” And if I help no one but myself by sharing my experiences, I’m still helping somebody. That definitely counts for something, because you can’t help someone else, until you’ve learned to help yourself.
I like to think I’m good at both. 
Written by Mike on August 14th, 2010
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Wednesday, September 1, 2010 has been declared Diabetes Art Day, by Lee Ann Thill, who is an Art Therapist, a fellow D-OC member, and host of the diabetes blog, The Butter Compartment.
| Between now and September 1st, participants will be creating diabetes inspired works of art using the artistic media of their choice, and then post pictures of their work on a blog, twitter, facebook, a diabetes social network, etc… on September 1st. More details can be found on Lee Ann’s blog.
I’m rather excited and proud to say that I’ll be participating in this inaugural Diabetes Art Day, and I hope that the rest of the diabetic online community will get involved as well. It doesn’t matter if your an experienced artist or a beginner. All are welcome. So, if you think it would be cool to create diabetes inspired works of art, here’s your chance to create something and share it with the world. I’m looking forward to meeting your inner artists. |
Image courtesy of Lee Ann Thill |
| And remember, it’s all in the name of raising awareness, and supporting the members of our community.
So, go grab some art supplies, and get crafty. |
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The Sugar Free Series by Naomi Kingery. Get your copies of "Sugar Free Me" & "Sugar Free Teens" today at www.livetolovediabetes.com
by Mike on July 15th, 2010
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As most of you know by now, I’m an open book when it comes to talking about my life with type 2 diabetes and congestive heart failure. I’m generally willing to talk about anything, because I believe there’s a chance that sharing what I know and live with may actually help someone else. And there’s always the benefit of being able to vent; that’s always a good thing. As is bonding with my readers and the rest of the community.
With that being said, I’d like to open the floor (is there a floor in the blogosphere?) to questions from anyone reading my blog. Do you have a question about type 2 diabetes or congestive heart failure, or some other question that you’re just chomping at the bit to ask me? You know, like general “get to know me” questions. This is your chance to get those questions answered.
Submit your questions to: mailbag@mydiabeticheart.com, or post a comment below. I’ll read them, and post the answers to this blog.
So don’t be shy. What would you like to know? I look forward to hearing from you.
by Mike on June 1st, 2010
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During the year and a half since I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I’ve often said that I see that diagnosis as a blessing in disguise. If it weren’t for my going to the doctor for diabetes related problems, the congestive heart failure wouldn’t have been found, and I probably wouldn’t be writing this post. The fact that I am here is a blessing in and of itself, but there have been so many more.
My diagnosis lead me to the diabetic online community, and the awesome people, blogs, and other websites that make up the community. And it lead to the creation of this blog, which has allowed me to share my story with people from all over the country, and even around the world. This blog, and my interactions with others in the community, have lead to another opportunity, too.
Some of you may have seen my tweet last night that I had just submitted my first post for Blogabetes, and some inquired as to what that was all about. Well, a while back, I was contacted by dLife and was extended an invitation to join their team of bloggers. I accepted, of course. And now that the paperwork and setup is out of the way, I’m at the starting point of this new opportunity, and as excited as can be.
Now, don’t worry, My Diabetic Heart isn’t going anywhere; I’m going to be blogging in both places. I’m thankful to have been blessed with another opportunity, and to know that I’m definitely in someones good graces.
This caught my eye on Wednesday and I just had to comment, what a beautiful piece of artwork. I'm really impressed!
JessI FOUND MYSELF!!!! I thought I was blind...but I can see clearly now! My cure? My glasses! :/ I know I'm a champ! Again, Master Yoda Mike, this is the awesomest idea ever and really just beautiful! I absolutely love it! I want this in postersize on my bedroom wall! framed.
JessOh I am sooo moving there! wait...they do have the Disney Channel right? Just kidding! ....they do though right?
Lee Ann ThillIt wouldn't be Diabetes Art Day without Little G's art! Or the day after as it were since I haven't been able to keep up...